Samoa XL (Extra Large) seat

Samoa Air is in the news again. After launching their pay by weight fares, they are today introducing a special section for passengers weighing more than 130 kilograms (287 pounds).

XL class for super-sized passengers will feature extra-wide rows and special ramps to help passengers reach their seats. The section is created by removing a row. Leg room is increased by 30 to 35 centimeters (12 to 14 inches) in the next row: “like a three-seat couch“, according to the airline.

It makes sense for Samoa, which the World Health Organisation says, has one of the world’s highest rates of obesity with corresponding record levels of weight-related coronary disease, diabetes and strokes.

Chief executive Chris Langton said. “We do it [XL] with shirts and clothing and other things where we have different standard sizes…We don’t have a large fleet of aeroplanes, but we wanted to do something that recognises that we are thinking about this.”

Langton predict other carriers will follow Samoa Air’s lead to cope with expanding waistlines. It seems to be working for the carrier with bookings up 100 per cent.

If airlines charge by weight, will this be an incentive for passengers to lose weight? If I know by shedding a couple of kilograms and taking a smaller bag, I will save ten bucks, would I do it? The company signed a deal with a local gym, in which members who lose weight receive Samoa Air vouchers giving them three kilos for the price of one.